The CEO of Harley Davidson is out. Influencer Robby Starbuck explains:
Big News: Harley Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz is officially OUT as CEO less than one year after I exposed @harleydavidson’s woke policies.
Now let me tell you how we got to this moment.
After weeks of my reporting, they ended their crazy DEI policies but kept their woke CEO.
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) April 8, 2025
Press release follows:
MILWAUKEE, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Board of Directors of Harley-Davidson, Inc. (the “Company”) (NYSE: HOG) today confirmed that it is engaged in an on-going CEO search process, as part of the Board’s succession planning responsibilities.
The search process was initiated in Q4 2024 with the retention of a leading executive search firm after Jochen Zeitz, the current CEO, expressed his interest in retiring from the Company in 2025 after five years in the CEO position, and subject to the appointment of a suitable successor. Mr. Zeitz will remain as CEO until such successor is identified to ensure an orderly leadership transition.
The Board is grateful to Mr. Zeitz for his many significant contributions to the Company as CEO. These contributions include, but are not limited to, the creation and successful execution of the Hardwire, the Company’s five-year strategic plan (2021-2025), reinvigorating the brand, and his leadership during one of the most challenging operating environments in the history of the Company.
JPKalishek says
One of the Big Wigs at work is an escapee from HD. Still has a bike and wears the jacket, polos etc. but got out of the place.
I’ve not seen him since this, so haven’t had the chance to ask him about it, but I get the feeling he will not shed a tear.
Paul Crowe says
Harley can do better. Let’s hope they do.